Reporter: Faith Kendi
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja against what he described as false reports aimed at undermining his leadership of the National Police Service.
Murkomen said he has full confidence in Kanja and the leadership of the police service, insisting that the Inspector-General is carrying out his mandate as provided for under the Constitution.
“I have read false reports out there that try to demean Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja. I have full faith in the leadership of the National Police Service. They are doing a fantastic job,” Murkomen said.
The Cabinet Secretary accused Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of using tribalism and propaganda to undermine Kanja’s office, particularly over claims that he is merely a “flower girl” at the helm of the police service.
“There are people out there, tribalists and other propagandists, trying to demean his office. I have full faith, and I believe every act done within National Police Service is guided by the Constitution,” he said.
Murkomen maintained that the National Police Service operates independently from the Interior Ministry, with Kanja responsible for operational matters including investigations and the deployment of police officers.
He said the ministry’s role is limited to providing policy direction in line with Article 245 of the Constitution, arguing that it does not interfere with the day-to-day operations of the police service.
He further pledged his continued support for Kanja and the leadership of the National Police Service as he discharges his constitutional responsibilities.
Murkomen’s remarks come amid continued scrutiny over the independence of the police and concerns about possible undue influence in policing operations.
